WOW!!! I have not followed the whole disscusion in total but I think I understand the original question. FIRST, Repentance is not a one time thing or a step, it is the reaction of rebuke. When peter preached the first sermon in
Acts 2 what he said pricked them in their hearts. This was conviction brought about by the realization of their sin nature. When you realize that you are a sinner and you want to make it right you have to turn away from the sin nature, (REPENT). Please understand that repentance must happen daily in order to keep turning from the sin nature. That is what Paul meant when he said I die daily. SECOND, Water baptism is not a step as much as it is an act of faith, and yes the mode does matter. When you are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remmision of sins, it's not the water that removes the sin it' s the name. Just as if I take a shower or bath, it's not the water that cleans me up it's the soap that removes the dirt and stink. THIRD, Recieving the gift of the Holy Ghost. Know this that the Holy Ghost is the spirit of God and without it would be impossible to have a intimate relationship with God.
1 Corinthians 12:3 (King James Version)
3Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
Now about tongues, it is a gift from God and is used in the NT as evidence of recieving the Holy Ghost. But no where did the aposotles ever pray for some one to talk in tongues they prayed for them to recieve the Holy Ghost. I think the church has forgotten that the Holy Ghost comes first and then the gift of tongues. But also keep in mind it is evidence of the indwelling. Think about it this way, when you go to buy shoes do you have to ask for the tongues seperatly or do they come with the shoes? I hope this answered somebodys question. It is not about steps, it's about belief and faith. I believe I can drive a car and have faith that it will deliver me to my destination. But unless I (step one) get in the car, (step two) put the keys in the switch and turn it on, (step three) put the car in gear and drive to my destination, All the faith and verbal confession still leaves me sitting at home!